Celebrating 20 Years

"As we mark 20 years of science, service and solidarity, we are committed to driving public health forward. We are excited to spend the coming months honoring our history while actively building a bolder, more equitable future of health that our world deserves." – Dean Ali S. Khan

Two Decades of Science, Service and Solidarity

This milestone reflects twenty years of science through groundbreaking research in areas like infectious disease, agricultural safety, cancer and maternal and child health—efforts that were further solidified by the 2011 opening of the state-of-the-art Harold M. and Beverly Maurer Center for Public Health.

The college’s history of service is deeply rooted in its commitment to global health security and community resilience, from the Great Plains to the Global South. From its early days as a joint Master of Public Health program to its current status as a champion for health equity, the institution has collaboratively and relentlessly sought new and creative solutions to the most challenging problems in public health while working to prevent them from happening in the first place.

By cultivating a world-class public health workforce and fostering deep-rooted collaborations—ranging from Nebraska’s local health departments to international organizations—the college has transformed the health landscape. All while reaching towards its vision of "healthiest people and places worldwide."

Ultimately, the spirit of solidarity defines the college’s impact. Whether leading the global response to the Ebola crisis, tackling health disparities in rural communities, or navigating the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UNMC College of Public Health has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the communities it serves. As it looks toward the future with a vision of "healthiest people and places worldwide," the college remains dedicated to the collaborative and innovative spirit that has guided its first twenty years.